United Way hosting its first-ever scavenger hunt

CHAMBERSBURG >> Scavenger hunts can be fun for people of any age, and now United Way of Franklin County is hosting its first county-wide hunt.

Scheduled to be held Oct. 9, the event "allows us to connect with a greater part of the community," said Amy Hicks, executive director of the local United Way.

According to Hicks, a committee member experienced a scavenger hunt like this in a different community and enjoyed herself so much, she wanted to have one held in Franklin County.

Participants will form teams of three to six people to experience the county at its finest. Teams will be given a list of items to find and tasks to complete and will collect points along the way. It will be up to the teams to decide where in the county they go based on the point values of the tasks and the group's familiarity with the area.

There is no skill level involved as participants simply "need to be willing to learn." The hunt is set up to be moderately challenging, but "not meant to be difficult," according to Hicks.

"We want teams to figure it out as they go," Hicks said.

The use of cell phones are encouraged, as pictures will be necessary, and being able to access the internet will be a help to members.

With this being a county-wide search, teams will be doing a bit of traveling by vehicle. There should be enough time to arrive at each destination, but that being said, the United Way is requiring the teams to be safe and to obey all traffic rules as police officers will be aware of the event going on.

"Teams need to be safe," Hicks said.

Teams are encouraged to register online prior to Oct. 9, however teams can register and start at 5:30 p.m. at The Orchards in Chambersburg, the new John Allison Public House on South Antrim Way in Greencastle, Flannery's Tavern in Mercersburg, or the YMCA in Waynesboro.

Prizes will be awarded for best costumed team and best decorated ride, however, each team is asked to raise at least $300 to be included for prizes. Team members can either donate the necessary money or a team can find a sponsor to back them in this event. All money raised will go towards funding community programs.